When it comes to writing, the agreement of verbs with compound subjects can be a tricky area for many writers. In this article, we`ll take a closer look at what constitutes a compound subject and explore some tips for ensuring verb agreement in your writing.
First, let`s define what we mean by a compound subject. A compound subject is made up of two or more nouns or pronouns that are joined together with words such as “and,” “or,” or “nor.” For example, “John and Mary” or “the dog and the cat” are both compound subjects.
When it comes to choosing the correct verb for a compound subject, the key is to look at the number and person of the subject. If the compound subject is plural, the verb should be plural as well. Similarly, if the compound subject is singular, the verb should be singular. For example:
– The dog and the cat are sleeping. (plural subject, plural verb)
– John or Mary is going to the store. (singular subject, singular verb)
However, things can get a bit more complicated if the items in the compound subject are of different numbers. In these cases, it`s important to identify the subject that is nearest to the verb and use that as a guide for the verb form. For example:
– The dog and the cats are sleeping. (plural verb is used because “cats” is nearer to the verb than “dog,” even though “dog” is singular)
– John or his brothers are going to the store. (plural verb is used because “brothers” is nearer to the verb than “John,” even though “John” is singular)
Another important factor to consider when dealing with compound subjects is the use of collective nouns. Collective nouns refer to groups of people or things, such as “team,” “family,” or “herd.” When a collective noun is used as a compound subject, the verb can be either singular or plural depending on the intended meaning. For example:
– The team is playing well. (singular verb, referring to the team as a single unit)
– The team are all wearing their new jerseys. (plural verb, referring to the individual members of the team)
In summary, ensuring proper verb agreement with compound subjects requires paying close attention to the number and person of each item in the subject. By following these guidelines and considering the use of collective nouns, you can avoid common errors and ensure that your writing is clear and correct.